Google has announced an array of new updates to Google Maps for users in India. These include Gemini AI integration, voice interaction, safety alerts, traffic notifications, danger zone warnings, and metro ticket booking. These options, which are already active in the United States, will soon roll out for Indian users.
Voice Interaction Powered by Gemini AI
With Gemini AI, Google Maps supports voice interaction now. Drivers can ask things like:
- "Can you recommend any budget-friendly restaurants along the way?
- "How does parking work there?"
With user permission, Maps can also automatically create calendar events based on your travel schedule.
Metro Ticket Booking Within Maps
The new update allows users to book metro tickets directly through Google Maps.
- Currently available in Delhi, Bengaluru, Kochi, and Chennai.
- The service will soon be extended to Mumbai.
- Any purchased ticket is automatically stored in Google Wallet, making it easily accessible.
Proactive local tips and EV charging stations
Proactive Local Tips, powered by Gemini, provide information about local attractions and other businesses. This is an extension of last year's Inspirations feature.
- Helps users locate nearby electric vehicle charging stations.
- Offers personalized recommendations when traveling.
Proactive Traffic Alerts
This update provides early warnings of road closures, congestion in traffic, and delays.
- Available first on Android for users in Bengaluru, Delhi and Mumbai.
- Assist drivers in planning their routes efficiently so that they avoid congested roads.
Accident-Prone Area Alerts
Google Maps now shows safety-focused alerts: It uses government data to alert drivers when navigating through areas prone to accidents.
- It is available on both Android and iPhone.
- Operational in Gurugram, Hyderabad, Cyberabad, Chandigarh, and Faridabad currently.
Speed Limits as Established by Law
Another safety feature, Authoritative Speed Limits, displays the maximum legal speed limit on every road.
- Source: Based on official government data.
- Coming soon for Android and iPhone users.
- Initially available in Ghaziabad, Noida, Gurugram, Jaipur, Faridabad, Lucknow, Mumbai, Kolkata, and Hyderabad.
Two-Wheeler Navigation Avatars
Exclusive for Bharat users, this will enable riders to personalize their avatar that is used for navigation.
- Choose your favorite bicycle icon and color.
- Rolling out to Android users over the next few weeks.
Flyover Navigation with Voice Command
Voice-based directions now feature in the new Flyover Navigation. Allows for voice-based navigation without necessarily looking at the screen. It is also available in nine Indian languages for both Android and iOS users.
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